The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church wants to erect a house of worship and a school at Bartlett Road and Route 59 in South Barrington. The village’s plan commission is set to hold a public hearing on the proposal Thursday night. (John Starks | Staff Photographer)
By Russell Lissau – Daily Herald
A church’s proposal to build a facility in South Barrington is drawing opposition from some area residents.
The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church wants to erect a house of worship and a school at Bartlett Road and Route 59.
Critics of the plan say they’re concerned about the ecological impact of such a development as well as the conversion of the land — long owned by the South Barrington Park District — into private property.
“It changes the use of the land from parks and recreation — a purpose the village approved back in 2004 for the enjoyment of the public — to a use that specifically excludes the public,” resident Mike Lombardi said.
A Plymouth Brethren representative couldn’t be reached for comment.
The church’s proposal would require the village board to amend an existing, village-approved development plan.
South Barrington’s plan commission, which advises the board, will hold a public hearing about the proposal at 7 p.m. Thursday at village hall, 30 S. Barrington Road.
Church representatives, park district officials and a resident of the nearby Woods of South Barrington subdivision are among the expected speakers.
Read more here.
Related: “Nearby South Barrington Park District property sale concerns neighbors”